Chimney Repair Services

Expert Chimney Repair Specialists

Chimney stacks are exposed to some of the harshest weather conditions, making them vulnerable to deterioration and damage. HouseProud Roofing provides comprehensive chimney repair services throughout South East London and Kent, from minor repointing work to complete chimney rebuilding.

A damaged chimney can lead to serious problems including roof leaks, structural instability, and even danger from falling masonry. Our experienced team combines traditional bricklaying skills with modern roofing expertise to restore your chimney to full structural integrity and weather resistance. All our chimney work is backed by our 10-year workmanship guarantee.

Our Chimney Repair Services

Chimney Repointing

Repointing is one of the most common chimney repairs needed. Over time, the mortar between bricks deteriorates due to exposure to wind, rain, frost, and temperature changes. When mortar joints fail, water can penetrate the chimney stack, causing further damage and potentially leading to leaks through the roof.

Our chimney repointing service includes:

• Complete removal of deteriorated mortar to proper depth
• Thorough cleaning of joints to ensure good bond
• Application of weather-resistant mortar mix
• Proper joint profiling for water shedding
• Color-matched mortar to blend with existing brickwork
• Repointing of chimney pot if fitted
• Treatment of spalling or damaged bricks
• Complete scaffolding if required

We use appropriate mortar mixes that match the strength and composition of the original mortar, ensuring compatibility with older brickwork and preventing future problems. Modern cement-heavy mortars can damage traditional bricks, so we take care to use the right specification for your chimney's age and construction.

Chimney Stack Rebuilding

When a chimney stack has deteriorated beyond simple repointing, partial or complete rebuilding may be necessary. This is particularly common with chimneys that have been neglected or exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Signs you may need chimney rebuilding:

• Visible leaning or movement of the stack
• Extensive spalling (flaking) of bricks
• Large cracks running through brickwork
• Missing or loose bricks
• Severe frost damage throughout the stack
• Previous poor repairs that have failed
• Structural concerns identified by a surveyor

Our rebuilding service includes:

• Careful dismantling of damaged sections
• Salvaging and cleaning of reusable bricks where possible
• Sourcing of matching bricks for invisible repairs
• Rebuilding to original specification or improved design
• Installation of damp-proof course if needed
• Fitting of new chimney pots
• New lead flashing installation
• All necessary scaffolding
• Complete waste removal

Chimney Lead Flashing

The lead flashing around your chimney is critical for preventing water ingress where the stack meets the roof. Failed or poorly installed flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks around chimneys.

Our chimney flashing service includes:

• Complete removal of old, failing flashing
• Installation of Code 4 or Code 5 lead sheet
• Front apron flashing for front face
• Back gutter construction for rear of chimney
• Stepped side flashings on both sides
• Lead soakers beneath tiles or slates
• Professional lead welding at corners
• Proper fixing into raked-out mortar joints
• Cover flashings to protect exposed edges

We use traditional leadworking techniques including lead welding (lead burning) to create completely watertight corners and joints. All lead work complies with current British Standards and Lead Sheet Association guidelines.

Chimney Pots and Cowls

Chimney pots serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They improve draft, protect the flue opening, and add character to your property. We supply and fit a wide range of chimney pots and cowls.

Our services include:

• Traditional Clay Pots - Period-appropriate pots for older properties
• Modern Pots - Contemporary designs for modern homes
• Bird Guards - Wire mesh cowls to prevent bird nesting
• Anti-Downdraught Cowls - Specialized cowls to prevent smoke blow-back
• Rain Caps - Protection from water entering unused flues
• Pot Replacement - Replacing cracked or damaged existing pots
• Secure Bedding - Proper mortar bedding for pot stability

Chimney Capping and Removal

For unused chimneys, capping provides protection while maintaining ventilation to prevent damp issues. We also offer complete chimney removal services where appropriate.

Chimney Capping Options:

• Ventilated capping systems to allow airflow
• Slate capping for traditional appearance
• Concrete capping for cost-effective solution
• Lead capping for premium protection
• All capping maintains ventilation to prevent condensation

Chimney Removal:

• Complete stack removal to below roofline
• Roof reinstatement with matching tiles
• Internal breast removal if required
• Structural calculations where needed
• Building control notification and compliance
• Complete waste removal

Brick Repairs and Replacement

Individual damaged bricks can be carefully removed and replaced to restore the structural integrity and appearance of your chimney stack.

Our brick repair service includes:

• Careful removal of damaged bricks
• Sourcing of matching replacement bricks
• Professional brick-matching service for older properties
• Proper bedding in appropriate mortar
• Treatment of spalling bricks where viable
• Invisible repairs that blend with existing brickwork

Chimney Damp-Proofing

Chimneys can suffer from damp penetration, particularly in unused flues where ventilation may be poor. We provide damp-proofing solutions including:

• Installation of damp-proof courses
• Chimney breast damp treatment
• Flue ventilation improvements
• Cavity tray installation
• Waterproofing treatments for brickwork

Storm Damage Repairs

Chimneys are particularly vulnerable to storm damage. We provide prompt repairs for storm-damaged chimneys including:

• Emergency stabilization of dangerous stacks
• Temporary weatherproofing
• Rebuilding of wind-damaged sections
• Replacement of blown-off chimney pots
• Re-securing of loose brickwork
• Documentation for insurance claims

Parapet Wall Repairs

Similar to chimney stacks, parapet walls are exposed to harsh weather and require similar repair techniques. We provide comprehensive parapet repair services including:

• Parapet repointing
• Brick replacement
• Coping stone repairs or replacement
• Lead flashing and damp-proof courses
• Rebuilding of damaged sections

Scaffolding and Access

Most chimney repairs require scaffolding for safe access. We arrange professional scaffolding installation as part of your project, or can work with your preferred scaffolding contractor. All scaffolding costs are clearly outlined in your quote.

Safety is our priority, and we ensure:

• Fully compliant scaffolding to current standards
• Safe working platforms
• Proper edge protection
• Pedestrian protection where needed
• All necessary permits and notifications

Building Regulations and Planning

Some chimney work may require building regulations approval or, in conservation areas, planning permission. We can advise on requirements for your specific project and help with necessary applications.

Work typically requiring building control:

• Structural alterations to chimneys
• Complete chimney removal
• Chimney breast removal
• Significant rebuilding work

Preventative Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent many chimney problems. We recommend:

• Annual visual inspection of chimney stack
• Checking pointing condition every 2-3 years
• Inspecting lead flashings for damage
• Checking chimney pot security
• Looking for signs of water penetration
• Professional inspection every 5 years

Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair

Contact us if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Crumbling or missing mortar between bricks
• Visible leaning or movement of the chimney stack
• Cracks in the brickwork
• Spalling or flaking bricks
• Loose or missing bricks
• Water stains on ceilings or walls near the chimney
• Damp patches on chimney breast
• Loose or damaged chimney pot
• Missing or deteriorated lead flashing
• White staining (efflorescence) on brickwork
• Pieces of brick or mortar on the roof

Period Property Expertise

We have extensive experience working on period properties and understand the importance of sympathetic repairs that respect original construction methods and materials. Our services include:

• Matching traditional brick types and sizes
• Using appropriate lime-based mortars
• Sourcing period-appropriate chimney pots
• Traditional pointing styles (flush, weatherstruck, etc.)
• Respecting conservation area requirements
• Working with listed building constraints

Why Chimney Repairs Shouldn't Be Delayed

Delaying chimney repairs can lead to:

• Water damage spreading to roof timbers and internal ceilings
• Increased repair costs as damage worsens
• Structural instability becoming dangerous
• Risk of falling masonry causing injury or property damage
• Insurance complications if neglect is evident
• Potential need for complete rebuilding instead of simple repairs

Emergency Chimney Repairs

We provide emergency response for dangerous chimney situations including:

• Unstable or leaning chimney stacks
• Storm-damaged chimneys
• Collapsed sections
• Immediate danger from loose masonry

Our emergency service provides rapid assessment, temporary stabilization, and urgent permanent repairs to make your property safe.

Why Choose HouseProud Roofing?

• Experienced bricklayers and roofing specialists
• Traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques
• Quality materials from trusted suppliers
• Comprehensive 10-year workmanship guarantee
• Fully insured for your protection
• Competitive pricing with transparent quotes
• Sympathetic repairs for period properties
• Complete project management including scaffolding
• Free surveys and expert advice

Serving South East London & Kent

We provide professional chimney repair services throughout South East London and Kent, including Erith, Bexley, Dartford, Sidcup, Bromley, Orpington, and all surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation survey and quote for your chimney repairs.